Local Bandits in Benue Reject Government’s Peace Offer, Reveals Governor Alia

In the Sankera axis of Benue State, Governor Hyacinth Alia disclosed that the bandits operating in the area have declined the government’s efforts to rehabilitate them.

Speaking in Makurdi on Sunday, the governor highlighted the bandits’ activities in Ukum, Katsina-Ala, and Logo LGAs, which make up the Sankera axis.

The Sankera axis has been a hotbed of criminal activities, especially after the demise of their leader, Terwase Akwaza, also known as Gana, at the hands of the military in 2020.

According to the State Commissioner for Information, Culture, and Tourism, Matthew Abo, the bandits have rejected multiple invitations for peace talks with the government.

The bandits feel betrayed by the government for allegedly failing to fulfill its promises of granting them amnesty.

Governor Alia stated that despite extending an olive branch to the bandits, they remained unwilling to engage in dialogue.

He expressed, “During my campaign, I urged all groups causing instability in the state to lay down their arms. The new government aims to bring them out of hiding and put an end to the violence. I offered educational sponsorship and skills training to help them rebuild their lives and livelihoods.”

Regrettably, the governor mentioned that some bandits who had embraced the offer were attacked and killed by rival factions seeking dominance.

Alia also accused certain politicians of backing the bandits, exacerbating the security challenges in the region.

He noted, “The instability in the Ukum area, caused by homegrown bandits, is fueled by politicians from Abuja.”

Despite the hurdles, the governor affirmed his commitment to engaging with the bandits to restore peace in the area.

“We will continue to engage them in dialogue. I have offered numerous peace initiatives,” Governor Alia concluded.